Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth Caslin-Turner.
Hi Elizabeth, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My story starts with humble beginnings. I was raised by my grandmother and later while in intermediate school I went to live with my aunt and uncle. Although this is not a typical upbringing, their love and support propelled me to dream big…and so I did. My dreams took me from wanting to study biomedical engineering to the possibility of wondering if I could run for president one day. Their phenomenal support leads me to believe that hard work makes dreams a reality.
However, I experienced a pivotal moment at school one day when a teacher informed me my dreams maybe a little too ambitious due to my dyslexia learning disability. It was at that moment that I understood I had to prove I am not my label. It took several more years before I realized my true potential and that my career path would be in education.
I have served in multiple school districts throughout Columbus, Ohio as a counselor and feel that I’ve made a significant impact in each building however, I wanted an even greater impact. I knew from my former positions that I would not be able to make the decisions that would inflict progressive change. I decided I would continue my education and pursue a career in educational leadership and develop my own nonprofit to capture kids before they fall through the cracks of our broken educational system.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Has it been a smooth road? It has not. However, I feel as though I have been able to learn from the challenges that I have been faced with. I strongly believe that it’s important to always have a backup plan, as unforeseen circumstances always arise.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am going to start by saying that I am most proud of my nonprofit organization, DNA Project! We hope to continue to develop new attitudes in children and a new mindset for educators. The DNA Project Family continuously works to construct new and progressive opportunities for all youth throughout Columbus, Ohio.
My most recent accomplishment was being selected to be a TEDx speaker by TEDxKingLincolnBrozeville. This opportunity allowed me to debut my educational theory that I use to affirm the work of my organization, The Five Labels Theory. The theory communicates how preconceived assumptions and/or labels by educators hinder student success by using five major labels. This was no easy task; as I conducted independent research to support the hypothesis of my theory. I recruited the help of my dear friend Donovan Patrick and DNA Project Advisory Board Member in the creation of an online research study. The study was completed by numerous educational professionals throughout the state of Ohio. Participates ranged from School Principals, Educators, Counselors, School Secretaries and additional Support Staff members. All participants confirmed the existence and the validity of The Five Labels Theory.
Since my presentation, I have received numerous invitations to continue my TEDx Talk and to share my story. I continue to work with my organization and its advisory board to create a curriculum; that aims to transform the perceptive lens of educators in a professional development format.
In addition to my work in youth development and education, I am excited to begin the year as Co-Chair of the Advisory Commission of DEI for Delta Phi Epsilon International, Sorority. In this position, I have been able to apply my skills and experience to foster policy change that is inclusive of all individuals internationally.
Throughout this journey, my resilience and authenticity are the attributes that I believe set me apart. As my journey moves from Higher Education for the state into K-12 Educational Leadership, I hope to continue to pave the path for individuals that not only look like me but LEARN like me into positions of ‘Compassionate Influence’.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
I have learned that it is important that we all remain healthy and safe. During these times, it is essential to take a moment for yourself. Take the time needed to recharge!
Contact Info:
- Email: dnaproject88@gmail.com
- Website: www.dnaproject88.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/dnaproject88
- Facebook: facebook.com/dnaproject
Image Credits
Kourtney Lei Photography
